Anger in the Air – The Height of Rudeness

Rudeness is rampant even in the air.  But you already knew that didn’t you? If you travel at all these days, you and others are exposed to incredible behaviors. People say and do things that would have been unthinkable even ten years ago. Of course, those who behave badly at 30,000 feet blame their actions on someone or something else.  Usually they say that it’s the airlines that are to blame  for this new height of rudeness. Didn’t their mothers tell them that only they are responsible for their behavior?

Just last week a young woman was verbally and  physically attacked because she boarded a flight with a cough.  As it turns out the cough was allergy related, but a fellow passenger accused her of thoughtlessly spreading germs to everyone on the plane. When words failed him, he resorted to bodily assault.

Whatever happened to good manners, kindness, courtesy and respect?  When I began my career as an etiquette expert over three decades ago, I was training people in the finer points of etiquette.  Now I am into basics and  below.

Since I focus on business etiquette, I want to caution business people in particular to watch their behavior not only in client situations, but also when they are traveling.  You never know who is going to be in the gate area or on the plane with you. It may be the client you are going to meet or someone in the audience you will be addressing.

Anger in the air will not help you create  profitable or productive relationships when you arrive at your destination and come face to face with the person who witnessed your anger in the air.

Do you have a horror story about airline travel to tell?  Chances are you do.  Consider sharing it in the comment box below.

Hire Lydia to work with your staff to improve customer service and employee relations through the use of those priceless and often over-looked soft skills called manners. Lydia is the “unstuffy” business etiquette expert who helps individuals and organizations add the polish that builds profits. We’re talking about your bottom line here.

Since 1996, countless people have benefited from her wisdom through keynotes, seminars and conference breakout sessions.  Her Southern charm and sense of humor have made her a sought-after speaker and consultant.

Based in Savannah, Georgia, Lydia is available for national, regional and local speaking and training engagements. She has suitcase; will travel.

Contact her via email at lydia@lydiaramsey.com or call 912-604-0080. Sign up for her free monthly newsletter and visit her website, lydiaramsey.com.